In the past, engagement rings were all about diamonds. However, times have changed and now there are so many different gemstones to choose from! If you’re a non-traditional bride looking for something a little different, then read on for the most popular engagement ring gemstones.
The History of Gemstones
Gemstones have been used in engagement rings for centuries, with the most popular being diamonds. However, non-traditional brides are now choosing other gemstones for their engagement rings. The most popular gemstones for engagement rings include sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.
Sapphires have been used in engagement rings since the Middle Ages. The most famous sapphire engagement ring is the blue sapphire ring worn by Princess Diana. Rubies have also been popular in engagement rings for centuries. Emeralds became popular in engagement rings in the early 20th century.
Non-traditional brides are drawn to the unique beauty of these gemstones. Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are all stunning stones that add a touch of luxury to an engagement ring.
Shopping Considerations
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for an engagement ring, especially if you're veering away from the traditional diamond. Here are some shopping considerations for the most popular engagement ring gemstones for non-traditional brides:
- Budget: How much can you afford to spend on an engagement ring? This is an important consideration, especially if you're looking at less conventional gemstones like sapphires or rubies.
- Color: What color of gemstone do you want? Again, this will be influenced by your personal preference, but keep in mind that some colors may be more expensive than others. For example, blue sapphires are typically more pricey than white sapphires.
- Clarity: How clear or translucent do you want your gemstone to be? Like color, clarity can also affect the price of the stone. However, it's important to remember that even a less clear stone can still be beautiful.
- Cut: The cut of the stone will also impact its overall appearance and can affect the price. Make sure to choose a cut that you love and that will complement the setting and band of the ring.
How to Care for Gemstones
If you're a non-traditional bride shopping for an engagement ring, you might be considering a gemstone other than a diamond. Here are a few of the most popular gemstones for engagement rings, along with some tips on how to care for them:
-Rubies are one of the hardest gemstones, so they're very durable and require little special care. Just avoid exposing them to household cleaners or chemicals, and have them checked and cleaned by a jeweler every few years.
-Sapphires are also quite durable, but because they're softer than rubies, they can scratch more easily. Be careful not to knock them against hard surfaces, and clean them only with mild soap and water. Again, have them checked and cleaned by a jeweler every few years.
-Emeralds are softer than both rubies and sapphires, so they require extra care to prevent scratching and chipping. Store them separately from other jewelry, handle them gently, and clean them with a soft cloth dampened with warm water mixed with mild soap. Have emeralds checked by a jeweler every year or two to make sure they're in good condition.
With proper care, any of these gemstones will make a beautiful and long-lasting engagement ring.
Fancy Color Diamonds
For many brides, the Couple engagement ring is one of the most important pieces of jewelry they will ever wear. It is a symbol of their love and commitment to each other. And, while diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings, there are a growing number of brides who are choosing colored gemstones for their rings.
Fancy color diamonds are some of the most popular choices for non-traditional engagement rings. These beautiful stones come in a wide range of colors, from the traditional white to yellow, pink, and even blue. Fancy color diamonds are often more expensive than traditional white diamonds, but they are truly unique and stunning.
If you are considering a fancy color diamond for your engagement ring, be sure to work with a reputable jeweler who can help you choose the perfect stone. Also, keep in mind that these diamonds require special care. They should only be cleaned with gentle cleaners and stored in soft cloth bags to prevent scratching.
Sapphires
Sapphires are a great option for non-traditional brides who want an engagement ring that is unique and different. Sapphires come in a variety of colors, including blue, green, yellow, orange, and pink. They are also very durable, making them a good choice for an engagement ring that will be worn every day.
Emeralds
When it comes to Diamond Engagement Rings, emeralds are a popular choice for non-traditional brides. Emeralds are beautiful stones that come in a variety of colors, from deep green to light green. They are also a durable stone, which is important for an engagement ring that will be worn every day.
If you are considering an emerald engagement ring, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, because emeralds are a softer stone, they can scratch and chip more easily than harder stones like diamonds. So, it's important to take care of your emerald ring and have it checked by a jeweler periodically to make sure it is in good condition.
Second, because emeralds are relatively rare, they can be more expensive than other stones. However, there are ways to save money on an emerald engagement ring. For example, you might choose a smaller stone or opt for a less expensive setting.
If you love the look of emeralds but want something different than the traditional diamond engagement ring, consider an emerald ring!
Morganites
Morganites are a popular choice for non-traditional brides looking for an alternative to diamonds. Morganites are a type of beryl, which is a mineral that includes emeralds and aquamarines. The pink color of morganites is caused by trace amounts of manganese in the crystal structure.
Morganites are usually less expensive than diamonds, making them a more affordable option for couples on a budget. They are also more durable than other gemstones, such as opals and pearls, so they can withstand everyday wear and tear.
If you're considering a morganite engagement ring, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, because they are less common than diamonds, it may be difficult to find a morganite in the exact shade of pink that you want. Second, morganites can vary significantly in quality, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. Only buy from a reputable jeweler who can provide certification for the quality of the stone.
Aquamarines
Aquamarines are the second most popular gemstone for engagement rings, after diamonds. They are often chosen by brides who want a non-traditional engagement ring.
Aquamarines are a type of beryl, and they range in color from pale blue to deep blue. They are found all over the world, but the most notable deposits are in Brazil and Africa. Aquamarines get their name from the Latin word for "sea water," because of their beautiful blue color.
Aquamarines are known for being durable and scratch-resistant. They have a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, which means they can stand up to wear and tear better than some other gemstones.
If you're considering an aquamarine engagement ring, keep in mind that they do tend to show scratches more easily than diamonds. However, this is usually not a problem because aquamarines can be easily recut and polished to remove any scratches.
When shopping for an aquamarine engagement ring, look for a stone that is eye-clean (meaning there are no visible flaws or inclusions) and has good color saturation. The best aquamarines have a deep blue color with very little green or grey in them. Avoid stones that are too light in color, as they may be less durable.
Moissanites
There are plenty of reasons why a non-traditional bride might choose to eschew the classic diamond engagement ring. Maybe you're looking for something a little more unique, or perhaps you're trying to save some money without sacrificing quality or style. Either way, moissanites could be the perfect gemstone for you!
Moissanites are actually quite similar to diamonds in many ways. They're both extremely hard and durable, meaning they'll stand up to everyday wear and tear with ease. They also have very similar optical properties, which is why moissanites are often used as diamond substitutes in fine jewelry.
The main difference between diamonds and moissanites is price. Moissanites tend to be much more affordable than diamonds, which makes them a great option for budget-conscious brides. And because they look so similar to diamonds, nobody will even know you didn't splurge on the real thing!
